The smallest woodpecker in North America (6 inches), and one of the most familiar at backyard suet feeders. Often confused with the larger hairy woodpecker, which is identical in pattern but has a much longer bill.

Also called: Downy

Native status: Native; widespread

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 14–17 cm (5.5–6.7 in); wingspan 25–30 cm
Weight21–28 g (0.7–1 oz) — smallest US woodpecker
LifespanWild typically 4–5 years; oldest documented 11
OrderPiciformes
FamilyPicidae

§ Encyclopedia

The downy woodpecker is a species of woodpecker, the smallest in North America. Length ranges from 14 to 18 cm. Downy woodpeckers primarily live in forested areas throughout the United States and Canada, with the exception of deserts in the southwest and the northern tundra. The bird nests in tree cavities and feeds primarily on insects, although it supplements its diet with seeds and berries. The downy woodpecker is very similar in appearance to the hairy woodpecker, although they are not closely related.

Source: Wikipedia — Downy woodpecker Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Tiny black-and-white woodpecker with white back, black wings spotted with white, and white outer tail feathers (with black bars). Males have small red patch on back of head.

Similar species. Hairy Woodpecker (much larger, longer bill — nearly as long as the head vs. Downy's shorter bill). Ladder-backed Woodpecker (barred back).

Voice. Sharp "pik" call; descending whinny call; short drum roll.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Insects (especially gall-forming wasps, caterpillars, beetle larvae); seeds (sunflower, peanut butter, suet at feeders); some berries.

Behavior. Smallest woodpecker in North America. Often joins mixed-species winter flocks with chickadees, titmice, and nuthatches. Drums on hollow branches and metal objects (gutters, light fixtures) to declare territory; the drumming is shorter and more rapid than the larger Hairy Woodpecker's.

§ Range

Throughout most of North America

§ Habitat

Woodlands, suburbs, parks, orchards

§ Threats

Loss of dead trees that provide nest cavities, window strikes, pesticide drift.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the downy woodpecker is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Leave dead trees and limbs ("snags") on your property. Hang suet feeders. Use bird-safe window treatments.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Cornell Lab — All About Birds
  • Project FeederWatch
  • National Audubon Society
  • IUCN Red List 2018